How to Buy Children's Play Tents

Think about the purpose of your tent: Will it be used as a playhouse in the backyard? As a fort in the living room? Or as a shelter in the campground?

Identify your requirements: You may need a tent big enough to accommodate a tea party or one that will sleep two comfortably. If you live in bug country, you'll need one with mosquito mesh. Some are designed for kids to build (with supervision, of course); some are designed to be put up by adults for kids.

Learn a bit about the qualities of tents. The two biggest differences between tents that are sold specifically for children are that some are waterproof or at least water-resistant (for outdoor use) and some aren't - and that some don't have floors.

Focus on what will grab your potential tenter: A brightly painted circus tent? A tent with tunnels and different levels that can be rearranged to create a new challenge? Or a glow-in-the-dark space dome?

Check recommendations when you shop - a "Parents Choice" or "Consumer Reports" endorsement is always a good sign.